Nashville sends Del Gaizo and Svechkov to Milwaukee Admirals ahead of next playoff stretch
As the NHL Playoffs heat up, the Nashville Predators made a strategic move to boost their AHL affiliate’s playoff run. On Monday, the team announced that defenseman Marc Del Gaizo and center Fedor Svechkov have been reassigned to the Milwaukee Admirals, giving the AHL squad an experienced boost as they chase the Calder Cup.
Marc Del Gaizo, who split the season between Nashville and Milwaukee, was eligible for reassignment after clearing waivers last week. The 25-year-old blueliner had three stints with the Predators this season, including a solid stretch run with the NHL club. He appeared in a career-high 46 games, scoring twice and assisting on seven others. While not a flashy player, Del Gaizo was steady, averaging nearly 17 minutes per game and showing he could handle regular NHL minutes.
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However, his future with the Preds is uncertain. With defenseman Andreas Englund recently signing an extension and other blueliners under contract, Del Gaizo is the only one left unsigned heading into 2025-26. Given his Group VI unrestricted free agency status this summer, Nashville may choose to move on, especially since he doesn’t meet the 80-game threshold to keep his rights. If this season was his last with the Predators, he made the most of his time.
Meanwhile, Fedor Svechkov’s reassignment feels more like a development decision. The 2021 first-round pick had a breakout start to the year in Milwaukee and earned himself a surprising call-up to Nashville. Over 52 NHL games, the 21-year-old showed flashes of his potential, notching eight goals and nine assists. While he still needs to improve on faceoffs and consistency, Svechkov played valuable third-line minutes and proved he could handle the pace of the NHL.
He’ll now get more meaningful ice time in Milwaukee’s playoff run, which could be exactly what he needs to take the next step. The Preds are invested in his growth, and a strong postseason performance in the AHL might solidify his spot on next year’s opening night roster.
For both players, this isn’t just a reassignment, it’s a chance to make a final statement this season. Whether Del Gaizo is looking to earn a new deal or Svechkov is pushing for a permanent NHL role, the Calder Cup Playoffs offer a valuable stage.
Image Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
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